Road accident statistics show that 63 people have died on the roads in Latvia by August 20, 2024, compared to 88 in the same period last year. Looking at the statistics in relation to other European Union (EU) countries, last year 76 people per million inhabitants died in road accidents in Latvia, compared to an EU average of 46.
Most drivers in Latvia do not drive at the speed limit in free-flow traffic. Studies show that only 29% of cars outside urban areas obey the speed limit of 90 km/h. However, in areas where speed cameras are deployed, around 83% of cars drive at 90 km/h.
The objective of reducing the number of serious injuries and fatalities by a third is included in the information report "Interim Impact Assessment of the Road Safety Plan 2021-2027", which also contains proposals.
"These include the creation of separate infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, the introduction of a zero-tolerance policy against reckless driving, and the reinforcement of controls on road users. It is equally important to ensure a compensation mechanism for moral damages resulting from infrastructure-related accidents," said Transport Minister Kaspars Briškens (Progressives).
The proposals also include improving the safety of micro-mobility services by obliging service providers to introduce reaction tests for all vehicle rentals on weekend nights.
There is also a proposal to provide more information support to highlight the possibility of testing new infrastructure solutions in development projects, as well as to develop a comprehensive guide for accident victims and their families.
The issue of fines for speeding up to 10 km/h is still a topic under consideration.
